Fall and Winter Preparation

Windows:
    Check all exterior seals such as vinyl pyle seal or metal runners to ensure they seal properly and are clean of foreign debris.  Those of you who have insulated glass make sure that there are no seal failures which  manifest themselves in cloudy interior glass..  Check the window sills for dirt and clean to ensure that the window seats properly.  For those of you who are the proud owners of older homes, broken ropes and balance chains can be simply replaced with a new device that can be easily installed and purchased for pennies at you local hardware store.  For those of you who do not have storm windows covering the inside with plastic is beneficial.

Doors:
    Check the exterior weather stripping to be sure that it is pliable and sealing against the door.  This striping can be adjusted to fit the door but if you need new stripping we recommend Q-Lon weather seals which are contained in a substantial aluminum channel.  This too can be consumer installed. Check to make certain that the threshold  meets the duodurometer on the bottom of the door. and seal the bottom of the threshold on the exterior where it meets the door sill.  To adjust the tightness of the door against the stops adjust the tongue of the keeper with a needle nose pliers.

Gutter:
    Clean the gutters and the downspouts and ensure that rain water will flow freely from the system. In treed areas cover the gutter with a gutter guard that is fairly rigid and will not crush when wet heavy leaves build up on top.  Be careful when selecting a gutter guard, not all trees are alike and shed different leaf size and thickness.  

Roofing:
    Although we are not roofers a simple way to check the roof is to simply check for loose and missing materials especially holes.  Do Not go up on the roof especially if you are afraid of heights and older let the professionals do their jobs.  Most of what you need to see can be observed from ground level.

Air Conditioners:
    Cover permanent installed air conditioners with a good insulated cover and ensure that the sides are sealed tight however always remove small room air units, a closed window will always be your best bet.

Exterior Basement Window:
    For those of you who have exterior window wells cover with plastic window well covers.  They are inexpensive and are customer friendly.  They will keep snow and wind from coming directly in contact with the glass.